Uber Sri Lanka, in partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports, today announced the launch of the Uber Entrepreneurship Challenge 2021, an initiative giving Uber merchant partners, driver partners and couriers the chance to showcase entrepreneurial spirit and innovation.

The winning entries will receive prizes at an award ceremony in November, graced with the presence of Hon. Namal Rajapaksa, Minister of Youth and Sports.

The COVID-19 pandemic challenged Uber to rethink how to motivate and engage its partners to achieve their goals and dreams. Start-ups are emerging as key drivers of economic growth in Sri Lanka and other emerging economies.

An industry first by Uber in Sri Lanka, the challenge is aimed at supporting a culture of entrepreneurship and the development of startups by providing a platform for partners to showcase their ideas. Uber wants to foster resilient startup ecosystems and create an environment for its partners to thrive.

Commenting on the initiative, Hon. Namal Rajapaksa, Minister of Youth and Sports stated, “Sri Lanka is a nation of resilience and exemplary talent. Creating a culture that supports local businesses and startups to thrive in is of utmost importance. The Uber Entrepreneurship Challenge is in line with this collective goal and will mark the beginning of a series of other entrepreneurship programs implemented by the Ministry. We believe this challenge will provide exposure and knowledge for its participants, allowing them to share their own stories and experiences with the public.”

Ms. Bhavna Dadlani, Head of Uber Eats Sri Lanka added, “We are excited to announce the launch of the Uber Entrepreneurship Challenge. I’m looking forward to seeing all our partners, be they merchants, drivers or delivery partners, display their business ideas and concepts.  Uber partners are at the very heart of our operations in Sri Lanka, and it is an honor to help them improve their livelihoods, their industries and communities. We are thrilled to collaborate with the Ministry of Youth and Sports on this timely initiative. I can’t wait to see what kind of ideas our partners come up with.”

Uber's merchant partners, driver partners and couriers are at the heart of Uber’s operations in Sri Lanka. The Uber Entrepreneurship Challenge is a testament to the company’s efforts to create economic and social value for all stakeholders and is in line with its long-term strategy to drive economic development and financial inclusivity in Sri Lanka.